DEFENDING his International Boxing Federation (IBF) World Super Flyweight title for the fifth time after a 12-round unanimous decision victory over Jonas Sultan Sunday (Philippine time) at Save Mart Center in Fresno, California was an entirely new experience for Panabo City's Jerwin Ancajas.
Ancajas, in an interview via Facebook on Monday, May 28, said: "Para sa ako Mam, lahi ni Mam kay usa mani sa history sa boxing sa Pilipinas. Nadungog akong mga pag-ampo na mabutang ang akong pangalan sa boxing sa Pilipinas (This is different for me as this marked a history in Philippine boxing. My prayers were heard that my name be put in the boxing map)."
He, however, admitted feeling nervous and excited at the same time when he climbed the ring.
"Naghalo-halo jud Mam, dili masabtan ang gibati pero nag-focus jud ko sa dula (I had mixed emotions, I could not describe it but I just focused on the fight)," Ancajas said, thankful that his hard work paid off.
Ancajas also said that he gave and did everything for his title-defense and that he capitalized on his experience and skills to outclass Sultan whom he described as a boxer difficult to fight against.
He added, "Nagdungag lang mi sa speed kay kabalo mi nga mag-focus pod sila sa speed (We worked on our speed because we know they would also focus on that)."
He dedicated his victory to his family, Team Survival Camp and to the country.
Ancajas said he will take a break from training this week and that his coach has yet to start talks on his next title-retention bid.
"Pahinga muna, wala muna akong training (I will rest, no training yet)," he said.